Blood transfusion and necrotising enterocolitis: a review and survey into feeding practices during transfusion

Studies have identified a temporal association between packed red blood cell transfusion (PRBCT) and necrotising enterocolitis (NEC). Some researchers have suggested that stopping enteral feeds during a PRBCT may reduce the risk of NEC. A survey conducted by the authors in 2011 identified over a third of English neonatal units stopping or reducing feeds around the time of an elective blood transfusion in preterm infants. The evidence for the benefit of this practice is very limited.